PANAJI
High Court Justice Nivedita Mehta called for greater gender equality in the legal profession, urging the legal community to support societal change that empowers women.
Speaking at the High Court Bar Association of India's International Women's Day event at the High Court of Bombay at Goa, she said the fight for women's rights goes beyond legal reforms and requires a society that enables women to thrive, free from discrimination.
Mehta highlighted the importance of collective responsibility in advancing gender equality. "This movement is not solely a cause for women; it is a collective effort that requires the involvement and commitment of all members of society," she said.
Calling on her peers to take action beyond legal frameworks, Justice Mehta stressed that the legal profession must actively promote gender equality. "Despite progress, numerous women continue to face difficulties," she said. "Our duty extends beyond professional obligations; it includes fostering a culture that empowers women to achieve true self-realization, free from societal constraints
Supreme Court senior advocate Menaka Guruswamy echoed Justice Mehta's call for greater representation of women in the legal field. Highlighting the low number of female Supreme Court judges, Guruswamy noted that since 1950, only 11 women have been appointed as judges out of 276.
"Improving these numbers is crucial, not only for gender equality but also to ensure the judiciary reflects the society it serves," she said.
Guruswamy warned that limited representation affects the credibility of institutions and their connection with citizens. She also spoke about the challenges women face in sustaining legal careers, particularly during child-rearing years, and stressed the need for supportive partners and fair domestic roles.
Guruswamy urged young women lawyers to explore criminal law. “It is structured and full of opportunities for dedicated advocates. I urge senior advocates to mentor female juniors, helping them build confidence to argue cases independently,” she said.
